A good CC cream evens out your skin tone, gives light coverage and adds some sun protection in one step. It is the base for days when foundation feels like too much. Below we explain what CC cream actually is, then look at five well-known formulas and who each one suits.
How we put this together: this review is based on brand information and widely reported user experience, not our own lab testing. Formulas, SPF ratings and shades change between versions and markets, so check the current label before you buy.
What is CC cream?
CC stands for “colour correcting” (or “colour control”). A CC cream is a tinted base designed mainly to even out redness, dullness and uneven tone, rather than to hide every mark.
- CC cream vs BB cream: BB creams focus on light coverage plus skincare benefits; CC creams focus on correcting tone. CC creams are often slightly thinner and more fluid.
- CC cream vs foundation: foundation gives more coverage and a wider shade range; CC cream gives a lighter, more natural finish.
- CC cream vs cushion: a cushion is a format, not a product type. Many cushions contain BB or CC-style formulas.
What makes a good CC cream
- A shade that blends into your skin without looking grey, pink or orange.
- The right finish for your skin type: satin or matte for oily skin, dewy for dry skin.
- Comfort: it should not feel heavy, sting or clog pores.
- Sun protection: helpful, but you rarely apply enough base to reach the SPF on the label. Use sunscreen underneath.
5 CC creams worth knowing
1. Sugao Air Fit CC Cream (Rohto)
A light, soft Japanese CC cream with a sheer, brightening finish. The brand lists SPF 23 PA+++, which suits low sun exposure.
- Best for: fair to light skin, everyday wear and a “no-makeup” look.
- Watch out for: very sheer coverage; it won’t hide breakouts or scars. Add a dedicated sunscreen if you are outdoors.
2. Kosé Sekkisei White CC Cream
A thin, cooling, fluid texture that spreads more easily than most BB creams, with medium coverage. The brand lists SPF 50+ PA++++. Give it a few minutes after application to settle into your skin tone before judging the shade.
- Best for: normal and combination skin in warm weather.
- Watch out for: may need setting powder and a touch-up later in the day.
3. Clinique Moisture Surge CC Cream
A hydrating colour corrector with broad-spectrum SPF 30. It feels richer than the others here but spreads well, and it gives a healthy, slightly rosy tone to dull skin.
- Best for: dry or dehydrated skin, especially in cold weather.
- Watch out for: light coverage and no oil control; oily skin may find it too rich.
4. Chanel CC Cream (Complete Correction)
The luxury option, with a thin, smooth texture and a soft, natural finish. Current versions list SPF 50. It evens out tone well and controls shine better than many CC creams.
- Best for: normal to oily skin and warm climates.
- Watch out for: medium coverage, so you may still need concealer, and a much higher price than the others.
5. Innisfree CC Cream
Innisfree has released several CC creams over the years, including serum-style formulas with a luminous finish and fairly strong coverage for a CC cream. They are often designed to correct a sallow or yellow tone.
- Best for: anyone who wants more coverage from a CC cream.
- Watch out for: sensitive skin should patch test first; check which version is currently on sale.
Which CC cream suits your skin?
- Oily skin: Chanel CC Cream or Kosé Sekkisei White; set the T-zone with powder.
- Dry skin: Clinique Moisture Surge CC Cream.
- Fair skin and a natural look: Sugao Air Fit.
- You want more coverage: an Innisfree CC cream, or add concealer to any of the others.
- Sensitive skin: look for fragrance-free formulas and always patch test first.
How to apply CC cream
- Prep: cleanse, moisturise and apply sunscreen. Let it settle for a minute or two.
- Dot: place small dots on the forehead, cheeks, nose and chin. Start with less than you think you need.
- Blend outwards: use your fingertips, a damp sponge or a dense brush, working from the centre of the face.
- Wait, then check: some colour-correcting formulas shift slightly as they settle, so judge the shade after a few minutes.
- Spot-conceal and set: add concealer only where needed, then dust powder on oily areas.
Tip: for a glowier finish on dry skin, mix a drop of facial oil or moisturiser into the CC cream before applying.
The takeaway
CC cream is the right choice when you want a more even tone with a light, natural finish, not full coverage. Pick by skin type and finish first, then make sure the shade blends into your skin. Keep a separate sunscreen underneath, and add concealer only where you need it.
Product details reflect brand information available at the time of writing and may vary by version and market. Written with reference to a review published by Beauty Review (beautyreview.co).